Pre-law Advising

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Are you interested in law school?

The pre-law curriculum is designed to prepare you for admission into law school. Students should take coursework in those areas of undergraduate instruction which are fundamental to the later attainment of legal competence. Although there is no single course of instruction, pre-law students, in consultation with their advisors, must complete course that accomplish the following.

Develop abilities in the critical understanding of human institutions and values

Assist in the comprehension and expression of words

Facilitate their ability to think clearly, concisely, and independently

Because of the complexity of the law school admissions process, the law school curriculum, and the profession of law, students should begin exploring pre-law preparation as early as possible and pursue as many opportunities to learn about it as possible. In other words, it is entirely appropriate for first-year students to begin their exploration. Pre-law advisement includes assisting students in curriculum choices, Law School Admissions Test [LSAT] preparation, and the law school admissions process.

“My experiences at Springfield College in the Department of Social Sciences really gave me the motivation to become a successful attorney. My academic focus during college provided me an internship with the Springfield Mayor’s Office. I was also able to do great volunteer work with Congressman Richard Neal, U.S. Representative for the 1st Congressional District of Massachusetts in the City of Springfield. I wouldn’t trade my experiences at Springfield College for anything!”
Andrew Covington '10, Assistant District Attorney Northwestern District Attorney’s Office

Andrew Covington

The Legal Profession

Field Overview

Generally speaking, lawyers advise clients of their legal rights and obligations and suggest particular courses of action in personal and business matters. Therefore, one practicing law should inspire trust and confidence, and be tactful, compassionate, and sensitive to the needs of others.

A lawyer while interpreting laws, rulings, and regulations, must be versatile and sharp to the ever-changing social needs and attitudes in society, economically, socially and politically.

Nature of the Work

Lawyers represent individuals on trial, counsel individuals and businesses to their legal rights and obligations, interpret the law, and apply it to specific situations. To do this, a lawyer is continually researching information and dealing with people in a courteous, efficient manner with strict confidence concerning matters discussed. Lawyers write briefs, which must communicate clearly and precisely. They must think quickly, speak with ease and authority, and be thoroughly familiar with courtroom rules and strategy.

Pre-law Curriculum

The Pre-Law Advisors National Council states that the pre-law student should take "courses that lend themselves to the creation of a context in which law may be better understood, courses that augment communication skills and courses that sharpen analytical skills." While pre-law students are not required to take any specific courses, preparation for the LSAT and law school itself demand that they be able to analyze problems, to express themselves effectively on paper and in speech, to understand our society and how it works, and to grapple with an understanding of human nature.

The following courses (among others) offered at Springfield College are likely to provide opportunities to pursue those skills.

Social Understanding

Social sciences, like sociology, economics, and political science

Upper-level courses that explore society in depth

History

American History

American Government

Introduction to Psychology

Communication

Written

Writing courses in any area are strongly recommended, particularly courses (like literature courses) that require extensive reading, such as ENGL 301 Advanced Composition and ENGL 220 English Grammar and Usage.

Bachelor's Degree Plus Law School Program

Interested in legal studies and law? In partnership with Western New England University School of Law, Springfield College offers a program where students can earn a bachelor's degree and law degree in six years.